Modified: June 11, 2019 8:27am
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PRESS RELEASE
From the Office of the Commissioner of Health, Dr. Gale R. Burstein
Date: June 10, 2019
CONTACT: Kara Kane, Public Information Officer
Email: kara.kane@erie.gov
Phone: (716) 858-4941
ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH ANNOUNCES NATIONAL MEN’S HEALTH WEEK LEADING UP TO FATHER’S DAY
Health issues and healthy behaviors take center stage in June
ERIE COUNTY, NY – When the House of Representatives discussed the passage of the 1994 law that declared a week in June to be National Men’s Health Week, one speaker noted: “Because of its impact on wives, mothers, daughters and sisters, men’s health is truly a family issue.”
It is with that in mind that the Erie County Department of Health has these suggestions for men and their families to focus on their health and well-being in June and throughout the year.
Regular Check-ups
Regular physicals and follow-up care with any recommended specialists are powerful tools to maintain good health. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can prevent tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.
Know Your Family History
Men should take time to learn about their family’s medical history, keep that record up-to-date and share it with their health care provider. Knowing that close blood relatives have been diagnosed with certain cancers or conditions can inform decisions to get preventive tests or screenings.
Cancer Screenings
Regular screenings for colorectal cancer and prostate cancer make it possible to detect those conditions early, before causing symptoms and when it may be easier to treat. Talk to your health care provider about what cancer screenings are recommended for you based on your age and risk factors. Eligible Erie County residents who are uninsured or underinsured can receive free colorectal screenings from the Cancer Services Program. Call (716) 858-7376 for information.
Protect Your Ears
If you suspect that you have hearing loss, ask your health care provider for a hearing checkup. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that hearing loss is the third most chronic condition in the U.S., even more common than diabetes or cancer. Protect your sense of hearing with earplugs or protective ear muffs when using loud tools or heavy machinery, or when listening to music as with concerts and live shows.
Protect Your Skin
The UV light from the sun’s rays will damage your skin. Men, and especially men who work or spend a lot of time outside, should guard against that damage year-round by wearing sunscreen with at least SPF 15 with UVA and UVB (broad spectrum) protection on exposed skin, covering skin with clothing and wearing sunglasses – preferably wrap-around – with UVA and UVB protection.
Protect Your Lungs
Simply put, if you smoke, try to quit. And if you don’t smoke, don’t start. According to the CDC, for every person who dies because of smoking, at least 30 people live with a serious smoking-related illness, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and lung conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema. The New York State Smokers’ Quitline is 1-866-NY-QUITS.
Recognize and reduce sources of stress
Your mood can affect your overall health. Find ways to manage stress that involve positive outlets, like exercise, hobbies and social supports. Don’t look to drugs, alcohol or unhealthy foods. Depression is a leading cause of disease or injury, and signs can include feelings of hopelessness and fatigue, persistent sadness or thoughts of suicide. Depression and anxiety can affect men of any age, and seeking help early is not a sign of weakness.
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Erie County Cancer Services Program: http://www2.erie.gov/cancerservices/
ECDOH Men's Health Resources: http://www2.erie.gov/health/index.php?q=mens-health
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